National Surrogacy Week 2025: Practical Insights and Evolving Perspectives

As National Surrogacy Week returns from 1–7 August 2025, it offers a timely opportunity to reflect on the evolving landscape of surrogacy in the UK and abroad. 

With increasing numbers of families exploring this route to parenthood, the week serves not only to celebrate surrogates and intended parents but also to provide practical guidance and highlight key developments from the past year. 

Legal Framework and Reform 

One of the most pressing issues remains the legal framework surrounding surrogacy in England and Wales. Currently, as the law stands, even if a couple were to use their own egg and sperm (i.e. the baby is biologically theirs) a surrogate, and their husband/civil partner if applicable, are the legal parents on birth - which can be both emotionally and administratively challenging. In 2024, renewed calls for reform gained traction, with the Law Commission’s recommendations—including pre-birth legal recognition—receiving widespread support. But unfortunately, on 10 April 2025, the Government wrote to the Law Commission confirming that they are unable to prioritise surrogacy reform currently. The letter did confirm that this would be looked into ‘in the future’ but no indication with regards to how far into the future this might be.  

Emotional Wellbeing and Disclosure 

A significant learning from 2024 was the emphasis on emotional wellbeing, particularly for children born through surrogacy. This was an issue considered very carefully in a recent case before the Court where, because there is no upper limit to the age of intended parents embarking on surrogacy, an application for a parental order was made by a couple in their 70’s for their surrogate-born toddler Couple in their 70s become legal parents of surrogate-born toddler | PET.  

Research presented during last year’s National Surrogacy Week underscored the importance of early disclosure. Children informed of their origins before the age of five were shown to have stronger emotional resilience and identity formation. As a result, many professionals now advocate for open conversations from an early stage, supported by age-appropriate resources and counselling where needed. 

International Surrogacy: Navigating Complexity 

For families considering international arrangements, 2024 highlighted the importance of understanding cross-border legal and immigration implications. Countries such as the United States and Canada continue to offer structured frameworks, but others may present challenges. It is strongly recommended that intended parents seek specialist legal advice both in the UK and the country of birth to ensure a joined-up approach. This includes understanding recognition of parenthood, visa requirements, and potential delays in bringing the child home.  

If joined up advice is not sought prior to arrangements, you can find yourself in a position where you cannot return the child to the UK for years e.g. Senior UK judge warns against unlawful surrogacy abroad 

Support Networks and Community Engagement 

The surrogacy community has grown significantly, with peer-led support groups, online forums, and professional networks offering guidance and solidarity. In 2025, organisations such as SurrogacyUK and MySurrogacyJourney continue to play a pivotal role in connecting surrogates and intended parents, facilitating ethical arrangements, and promoting best practice. 

Looking Ahead 

National Surrogacy Week 2025 is not only a celebration—it’s a call to action. Whether you are considering surrogacy, supporting someone through the process, or working within the legal or medical framework, this week provides a valuable opportunity to engage with current thinking, share experiences, and advocate for continued progress. 

As the conversation around surrogacy becomes more open and inclusive, the focus remains on safeguarding the wellbeing of all parties involved—especially the children at the heart of these journeys. With thoughtful planning, legal clarity, and emotional support, surrogacy can continue to offer a meaningful path to parenthood for many families across the UK and beyond. 

Read more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in surrogacy law.